Group Talk

In recognition of Black History Month, we’re spotlighting five books by African American authors that we think every reading group should discuss: Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison, Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin, A Mercy by Toni Morrison, The Twelve Tribes of Hattie by Ayana Mathis, and On the Come Up by Hannah Weyer.

Knopf editor Gary Fisketjon presents The Orenda, Joseph Boyden’s epic saga about the first encounters between Jesuit missionaries and the native tribes of Canada. Read his note to set the stage for your book club’s discussion of this riveting novel.

Maeve Binchy’s Chestnut Street takes its title from a fictional Dublin neighborhood conjured by the beloved Irish writer. Immerse yourself in the charming setting with this recipe for authentic Irish porter cake, the ideal treat to share with your reading group friends.

In this emotionally powerful essay, Ayelet Waldman writes about the inspirational story of her encounter with a Budapest jeweler who later became the basis for a character in her mesmerizing new novel, Love and Treasure. Also, join us for a live Facebook chat with Waldman on February 18, 2015!

Dinaw Mengestu’s All Our Names is an immigrant story exploring universal themes of identity, new beginnings, and human connection. But for Vintage Books editorial assistant Tom Pold, there’s one element that forms the heart of the novel. Enjoy his note below!